Consumer Protection Division

Common Roofing Scams in the Kansas City Metro

From the historic streets of Brookside to the sprawling suburbs of Olathe, Kansas City homeowners are frequent targets for predatory roofing practices. Understanding the specific mechanics of local fraud is your first line of defense.

The "Deductible Eating" Scheme

One of the most prevalent scams in Jackson and Johnson Counties is the promise to "waive" or "cover" a homeowner's insurance deductible. In a typical KC roof replacement costing between $12,000 and $18,000, a 1% deductible can be a significant hurdle for residents.

Legal Reality Check

In Missouri, **Senate Bill 101** explicitly prohibits residential contractors from advertising or promising to pay or rebate any portion of an insurance deductible. In Kansas, while the statutes are structured differently, "eating the deductible" often involves submitting a falsified, inflated invoice to the insurance carrier (e.g., State Farm or American Family), which constitutes insurance fraud.

Scammers achieve this by using sub-par materials—swapping out high-quality architectural shingles from local suppliers like **ABC Supply Co.** or **Beacon** for lower-grade "seconds" or expired batches—and pocketing the difference to cover your deductible cost.

The "Contingency Agreement" Trap

After a localized hailstorm in neighborhoods like Overland Park or Lee's Summit, sales reps often flood the area asking for a "simple signature" to allow them to inspect your roof or "talk to your adjuster."

In reality, these are often legally binding contingency contracts. By signing, you are unknowingly committing to use that company for the entire project if the claim is approved. If you decide to go with a more reputable local contractor later, the scammer may threaten you with a "cancellation fee" that can range from 10% to 25% of the total claim value.

The "Free" Upgrade Mirage

Watch out for contractors promising a free upgrade to Class 4 Impact Resistant (IR) shingles. While these are excellent for the KC climate, they are expensive. Fraudulent actors will charge the insurance company for the IR shingles but install standard 3-tab or basic laminates.

  • Check the wrapper: Ensure the bundles on your driveway match the invoice.
  • Verify the UL 2218 rating on the material packaging.
  • Ask for a "Certificate of Installation" to provide to your agent for premium discounts.

Price Gouging vs. Market Reality

Service ComponentFair Market (KC Metro)Scammer Tactic
Deposit10-33% or only upon material delivery50%+ requested immediately
Standard Asphalt Roof$450 - $650 per "square"Extreme "low-ball" or "free" promises
Permit FeesBased on local muni (e.g., Olathe/KCMO)"Not needed" or "already included" (fake)